Corruption in government

As a citizen, (former president) Soeharto obviously has the right to tell his side of the story regarding allegations of corruption and to present his facts to the public. On the other hand, the government, which has been mandated by the people to act, has the authority to examine whether the allegations regarding Soeharto's wealth are correct.

It would, in this context, be proper for the government to apply the principle of a reversal of the burden of proof from the plaintiff to the accused. This would mean that Soeharto, his family and his cronies cannot just wait for people and the government to prove their case, but they must explain how they acquired their current wealth.

So far, as we have seen, Soeharto and the government as represented by Attorney General A.M. Ghalib have challenged the public to prove the existence of the former president's acquired wealth. On Friday, for example, Soeharto merely filled out a form declaring his wealth, as President B.J. had Habibie requested. But although this could be used as a starting point for a further investigation, it is not enough. This is all the more true since the government investigators appear to prefer to take a passive attitude by asking people to justify their claims.

We believe it would be useful for the government to actuate a breakthrough with regard to the fight against corruption, collusion and nepotism. President B.J. Habibie and all the members of his Cabinet, for example, could make public their wealth, including how they acquired it, for everyone to know.

As people appear to be highly doubtful of the government's determination to combat corruption, such a transparent attitude on the part of the authorities would provide useful shock therapy to quell the skepticism that at present exists among the public.

We are certain such a step would be highly appreciated and get the full support of the people. Hopefully it would also prompt Soeharto to explain how he acquired his possessions, thereby preventing further questioning by the public.

-- Bisnis Indonesia, Jakarta